Chapter 16 CASSANDRA Cassandra is strolling through the garden when she hears a rustle behind her. She whirls around and finds herself staring at Emilio. Are you here to intimidate me again? she asks, choosing to focus on the surrounding greenery rather than his face. He steps up beside her. Dinners almost ready, he says. This place is beautifulI love the scent of these fresh flowers. You have a lovely home, Emilio. Soon itll be yours too. By the way, there are some papers I need you to sign; my lawyer will be expecting them tomorrow. Shes already aware its a prenuptial agreement. When do you want me to sign? Now would be goodbefore dinner. They head into his home office, and he hands her the documents. Whats this? Cassandra asks, just to make him say it out loud. Prenuptial agreement. Emilio hands her a pen. Dont worry, Im not going to make you sign something that gives me total control over you. I dont have anything to take, she responds. Where do I sign? He points it out, and she signs. Ill join you at dinner in a bit, Emilio says. Cassandra decides to go upstairs to check on Alex. On her way, she runs into Mrs. Rodriguez. I just left his roomhes fast asleep. Emilios mother touches Cassandras arm. Why dont we chat about how you and my son met and why you kept my grandson a secret from me for so long? What can she say? Where should she start? Emilio should have had this conversation with his mother, not her; it was his idea to pretend they were in love. What can she say now? After they move to the terrace and settle down, the woman Cassandra saw earlier brings out more tea. Thank you, Annah, Mrs. Rodriguez says. Cassandra takes a cup and nervously sips her tea. Where the hell is Emilio when she needs him? Mrs. Rodriguez Call me Emilia, and after the wedding, I expect you to call me Mother. Is that understood? Cassandra nods. How did you and Emiliano meet? Well…uhm…the company I was working for had a business party. Thats where we met. How long have you two been together? He never mentioned you or said anything. Cassandra gives a shaky laugh. We havent been together long. A few weeks into our relationship, we lost touch; that was fifteen months ago. Shortly after, I found out I was pregnant. I tried to find him but couldnt. So why are you two getting married now? Emilia asks. Emilio shows up, thankfully interrupting their conversation. Fifteen months ago, Cassies red hair and beautiful smile captivated me. Fate brought us back together two months ago, and thats when she told me about Alex. I was so thrilled I immediately proposed, and she said yes. We decided we didnt want to be apart. See, Mama, youve been nagging me to settle down and give you grandchildren, but fate already had my life planned out for me…with this beautiful woman. So, you both love each other? Emilia asks. Unconditionally, Emilio says. Cassandra looks at him.If only that were true. Im happy, Emilia says. Emilianos father and I were a love match, and Ive always wanted that for my son. I knew there was a woman out there who would win my sons heart and make him change his ways. Love is such a beautiful thing that we all need in our lives. Im glad, Emiliano, that youre finally experiencing it. Your father would be so proud of you. Cassandra cant stop staring at Emilio. Themin love? It will never happen; they are worlds apart. She shouldnt really fall for him and forget why they are doing this. Emilio claps his hands, saying, Lets eat so that Mama can go and rest. Nonsense, she replies. I still need to discuss the wedding with Cassandra. We have a lot to plan and arrange. Mother, everything is already sorted. Were getting married this Saturday, remember? Cassandra sees the shock on his mothers face. She must have dreamed of planning her sons wedding, and knowing that wont happen makes her feel even guiltier. Emilio continues, Cassie doesnt want to make a spectacle of the whole wedding, and I agree with her. We want it to be intimateas long as our close family and friends are there, then nothing else matters. Well release a statement afterward to inform the media. Thats a great idea, Emilia concedes. That way, the day will be about the two of you. She turns to Cassandra. When is your family coming? Cassandra looks at Emilio. Hes been leading the conversation, so why not let him answer this one too? Cassie never knew her family, Mama. Im sorry, dear. It mustve been tough on you not having anyone to lean on. I survived. At least Alex will have what I never hada family. Youre right, Emilia says. A mother and father wholl teach him the importance of love and family and a grandmother who will spoil him rotten. Cassandra smiles. 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